Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat selected chronic sinus conditions that do not improve adequately with medical treatment. It is performed through the natural openings of the nose using a small endoscope.
Dr. Prakhar Kumar evaluates the nasal passages and sinuses to determine whether FESS is appropriate. The procedure aims to improve sinus drainage and ventilation while preserving as much healthy nasal and sinus tissue as possible. Book a consultation.
Conditions
FESS may be considered for selected sinus conditions that remain troublesome despite appropriate medical management.
- Chronic sinusitis
- Recurrent sinus infections
- Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps
- Blocked sinus drainage pathways
- Persistent sinus disease despite medical treatment
- Sinus disease associated with structural nasal problems
- Selected recurrent nasal polyp cases
- Other selected conditions requiring endoscopic sinus treatment
Symptoms
Persistent sinus symptoms despite appropriate medical treatment may require further evaluation for possible endoscopic surgery.
- Persistent nasal blockage
- Facial pressure or pain
- Recurrent or persistent sinus infections
- Thick or persistent nasal discharge
- Post-nasal drip
- Reduced or lost sense of smell
- Persistent headache or facial heaviness
- Chronic cough or throat irritation
Causes
Chronic sinus problems can develop when inflammation, infection, polyps, or structural narrowing interferes with normal sinus drainage.
- Chronic inflammation of the sinus lining
- Recurrent sinus infections
- Nasal polyps
- Nasal allergies
- Blocked or narrowed sinus drainage pathways
- Deviated nasal septum or other structural problems
- Persistent swelling of the nasal lining
- Other conditions affecting normal sinus ventilation and drainage
Treatment
FESS is considered after a detailed assessment when symptoms and sinus disease remain significant despite appropriate medical management.
- Detailed ENT consultation and nasal examination
- Diagnostic nasal endoscopy
- Assessment of sinus drainage pathways
- Imaging when clinically required
- Medical treatment before surgery when appropriate
- Endoscopic access through the natural nasal passages
- Removal of obstructing tissue or polyps when indicated
- Improvement of sinus drainage and ventilation
Benefits
FESS is designed to restore functional sinus drainage and address selected causes of persistent sinus disease while using a minimally invasive endoscopic approach.
- Helps improve sinus drainage
- May relieve persistent nasal blockage
- Can reduce facial pressure and sinus discomfort
- May reduce recurrent sinus infections
- Can improve nasal airflow in suitable cases
- May help improve the sense of smell
- Provides direct endoscopic treatment of selected sinus disease
- Uses the natural nasal passages without external facial incisions
Prevention
Good nasal care and appropriate management of allergies and sinus conditions can help reduce recurrent symptoms and support long-term sinus health.
- Manage nasal allergies as advised
- Follow prescribed nasal treatment regularly
- Maintain recommended nasal hygiene
- Avoid prolonged exposure to dust, smoke, and irritants
- Treat recurrent sinus infections promptly
- Stay adequately hydrated
- Do not ignore persistent nasal blockage or facial pressure
- Follow all postoperative care instructions after FESS